Jorge Sampaoli's energetic team are many pundits' dark horses for the 2014 tournament, but much of that enthusiasm was dampened when Chile were drawn in Group B alongside 2010 World Cup finalists Spain and Netherlands, as well as Australia.

However, speaking ahead of La Roja's opening game against the Socceroos on Friday, Barcelona attacker Sanchez told O Globo that he feels his country are genuine contenders.

"I believe that Chile are going to win the World Cup," Sanchez said.

"If I did not believe that Chile could be world champions, I would have stayed at home, watching the games on the TV."

Following the Australia clash, Chile face Spain on June 18, before taking on Netherlands on June 23.